Two Eastside residents were saved in two days due to the quick-thinking staff at a local gym and the building's automatic external defibrillator (AED).

On Wednesday, Oct. 31, a 79-year-old man collapsed while playing racquetball at the 24 Hour Fitness Club. Staff sprang into action, calling 911, and starting CPR. A staff member used the defibrillator at the front desk to provide an electrical shock to start the man's heart. Bellevue paramedics transported the patient to hospital where he was conscious and alert later that day.

The next day, a 66-year-old man collapsed during a zumba class. Staff called 911 while a bystander, a local physician, did CPR. With the assistance of a Bellevue police officer, the physician was able to provide three shocks with the defibrillator. With some additional CPR and an additional shock, paramedics were able to transport the man to Overlake, where he was listed in stable condition.

Studies show that patients suffering from cardiac arrest have a 70 to 80 percent chance of survival if a defibrillator is used within minutes.